What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Symptoms)

• Genital Psoriasis Vulgaris - Penis
• Penile Psoriasis Vulgaris

What is Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Psoriasis is a common, chronic, inflammatory skin condition that occurs due to a genetic defect. It causes the skin to grow faster than normal, resulting in white, scaly patches on the skin surface on various parts of the body
• There are many forms of psoriasis; one of the common forms is called psoriasis vulgaris. In this type, the signs and symptoms are usually more severe. It can affect various parts of the body, including the glans penis (or penis head)
• Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis appears as well-circumscribed red plaques on the surface of the glans penis; there may or may not be silvery scales (or flakes) on it
• Sometimes, the presence of lesions on the penile skin (or penis head) may be the first signs of Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis development. The signs and symptoms may get better and worse over a period of time (whether treatment is provided or not)
• Currently, Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis is incurable. However, the severity of the condition may be controlled using medications, and the prognosis can be excellent

Who gets Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Psoriasis affects approximately 2-3% of the world's population; Psoriasis Vulgaris is the most common type of psoriasis
• Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis is mainly present in adolescent boys and elderly men over 60 years
• Psoriasis is observed worldwide and affects all races and ethnic groups. Generally, Caucasians have a higher incidence of this skin condition when compared to African Americans

What are the Risk Factors for Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis? (Predisposing Factors)

Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis risk factors may include:

• Having a family member with psoriasis
• HIV-infected patients
• Lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, diabetes, and heart disease

Note: Psoriasis is not a contagious condition; one cannot contract it through direct contact with an affected individual.

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis? (Etiology)

Psoriasis Vulgaris is the most common type of psoriasis. Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis is due to uncontrollable proliferation of skin cells due to genetic factors. However, the exact cause of the condition is still unknown.

• It is believed that a dysfunctional immune system that leads to the abnormal and rapid growth of skin cells may be the causative factor
• It is also thought that environmental factors may contribute to its development
• Psoriasis is not a contagious skin condition, and it does not spread through direct contact. Also, Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis is not a sexually transmitted disease

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis?

The signs and symptoms of Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis may include:

• Lesions may be present as well-defined red plaques on the penis head (glans penis)
• There may or may not be silvery scales on the patch
• It can cause severe itchiness, dryness, and pain
• Some individuals have mild presentations, while others may have severe presentations. Cold seasons may aggravate the condition

How is Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Psoriasis Vulgaris of the Penis may involve:

• Physical examination and a thorough medical history
• Microscopic examination of a skin scraping for the presence of Candida (yeast) organisms
• Bacterial and yeast cultures
• Tissue biopsy: A pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed), and microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis. A tissue biopsy is often performed to rule out other conditions

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis?

Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis can cause complications depending on the severity of the condition. These may include:

• Rarely, infections by bacteria and fungus
• Psychological issues, such as social anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, and depression, may occur in severe cases
• Some individuals may be under severe stress by mistaking the condition for a sexually-transmitted infection

How is Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis Treated?

There is no definitive cure for Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis. Nevertheless, the severity of the signs and symptoms may be controlled using medications. The treatment goals are to control the symptoms and prevent infections and significant complications.

• Steroid or vitamin D topical creams may help with mild conditions
• Oral medications such as acitretin and apremilast
• Systemic drugs include immunosuppressives (such as cyclosporine and methotrexate) and biologic drugs (biologic response modifiers)
• Provide counseling therapy for emotional and psychological issues; some men and/or their sexual partner(s) may mistakenly believe that Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis is a sexually transmitted disease

Some medications may have significant side effects, and hence, the physician may recommend the use of a combination of medications. This is known as rotational therapy.

A few tips for self-care and personal hygiene include:

• Keep the affected skin (region) clean and dry
• Completely avoid scratching the affected areas
• A comfortable, cool bath may help soothe the skin; but avoid excessive washing and scrubbing of the skin
• Wear smooth cotton clothes and innerwear
• Use only mild perfumes, soaps, and detergents
• Drink lots of water or fluids

How can Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis be Prevented?

Currently, there are no preventative methods for Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis since the cause is unknown.

• Practice self-care and personal hygiene
• Regular healthcare visits to monitor the condition are advisable

What is the Prognosis of Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis? (Outcome/Resolutions)

• Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis is a chronic skin disorder. There may be signs of improvement, but then there could be a relapse, too. Often, the symptoms get better and worse over a period of time (sometimes with or without treatment)
• The prognosis is excellent for mild cases; in severe cases, treatment has to be taken for a longer period of time
• Close monitoring and providing appropriate treatment can help enhance the quality of life

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Psoriasis Vulgaris of Penis:

A differential diagnosis may be considered to eliminate the following conditions:

• Lichen planus
• Squamous cell carcinoma in situ
• Invasive squamous cell carcinoma
• Fixed drug eruption
• Condyloma acuminatum
• Penile candidiasis
• Staphylococcal  infection